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Who Else Thumb Strums?
I’ve been playing about 3 1/2 years now, and still cannot seem to strum with a pick very well, and end up just “thumb” strumming to avoid my frustration. I also tend to thumb strum due to keeping my playing a bit more quiet in the house. I do keep trying. I try to use different picks, I’ve even had a year and a half of personal instruction and still can’t strum with a pick worth a crap. Who else here is a thumb strummer? Do you find not using a pick is limiting you?
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2 Replies
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I’m not sure if I can really answer your question, but I’m both a picker and a thumb-strummer, and I do each for different reasons. Full disclosure, I’m 6 months into TAC, but had some brief and informal guitar instruction in my late teens/early 20s. Which was some time ago! I never used a pick back then, simply didn’t have one.
Now, I tend to follow the instructional sessions as to what tool to use if any. There is a flat-picking course in the Courses section in the sidebar to the left of the screen; you might go there, I did. During practice sessions, when not specified, I tend to do whatever I feel like, or if I’ve mislaid the pick. (It’s usually on my desk or tucked between the strings on the headstock.) Some of the lessons I think would require using a pick if it’s got mixed strumming and single notes, unless you’re really dexterous with finger-picking; that is the only place where it could possibly slow you down.
But if you’ve been playing for 3-1/2 years, I’m sure you have your own habitual way that is comfortable and easy for you. But do try the flat picking course; it might address some of your concerns. Good luck!
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Well, thanks all! Ive started with the guitar pick as it seemed the right thing to do although I really struggle at times to move between notes. Reading the thread about thumb strumming, I gave it a go and for some songs, it certainly gives a different sound and also I can pick quicker with my thumb. Very much appreciated !!
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